Molecular pathobiology of hookworm infection.

Within the past 2 years, progress has been made in the identification, isolation, and cDNA cloning of several macromolecules from hookworms. While the predicted amino acid sequences of some cDNAs resemble those from other nematodes, such as Caenorhabditis elegans, other cDNAs are unique to hookworms. Studies are under way to evaluate the function of these recombinant hookworm polypeptides with respect to the biology of hookworms in experimental animal models. The recombinant polypeptides are also under evaluation as vaccine targets and as natural products used in the treatment of human cardiovascular and autoimmune diseases.